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You may have noticed a new brand of milk while doing your grocery shopping called a2 Milk. If you are wondering how this product is different than other milk products on the shelf, look no further!
In this review, I will discuss what makes a2 Milk unique, who may benefit from this product, and other important things to consider.
How is a2 Milk different?
Milk contains two major milk proteins, casein, and whey. Beta casein makes up about 30% of the protein in milk. It is found in two varieties – A1-type bovine beta-casein and A2-type bovine beta-casein, more simply referred to as A1 and A2.
Research studies have shown a proinflammatory and immune response when consuming A1. Compared to A2, A1 has more effects on gut motility and transit time during digestion. In simpler terms, consuming A1 may cause symptoms of stomach discomfort.
Most cows produce a combination of A1 and A2 casein in their milk. However, the a2 Milk company selects cows that produce milk with only A2 casein. As a result, their milk is free of A1.
Studies that show links with digestion of A1 and associated symptoms have been conducted in the lab and on animals. In addition, many results from human trials have been promising thus far. More research is needed before specific recommendations can be made.
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Who can benefit from a2 Milk?
If you generally experience gassiness, bloating, or discomfort after drinking milk or eating dairy products, you may benefit from a2 Milk. In regards to an inflammatory response or symptoms experienced from inflammation, more research needs to be completed in human trials to determine if a2 Milk has a significant impact.
Personally, I would like to caution that a2 Milk will not improve your symptoms if you have lactose intolerance or a milk allergy.
If you have lactose intolerance, your body is not able to digest the milk sugar lactose. Unfortunately, a2 Milk contains lactose like traditional cow’s milk.
If you have been diagnosed with a milk protein allergy, this is different and more serious than intolerance because your body has an immune response to milk proteins. Even though there is a different variation of the milk protein casein in a2 Milk, it contains all other milk proteins in traditional cow’s milk. Therefore, you should not consume it without consulting your doctor.
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Is a2 Milk right for you?
Pros
- Tastes like standard (traditional) cows milk
- Is a great alternative for those that can’t tolerate standard cows milk
- Is produced from cows that are free from growth hormones, rBST, or antibiotics
Cons
- Some a2 Milk products (i.e. non-fat milk, etc.) are not available in the US at this time
- Is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergy
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How much does a2 Milk cost?
When comparing the cost of a2 Milk to traditional cows milk, you’ll find it is approximately $2 more expensive than standard cow’s milk. On the other hand, it’s about $.50 cheaper than organic cow’s milk. Also, a2 Milk is available for purchase in the United States as whole, 2%, 1%, and 2% chocolate varieties.
Nutritional breakdown and other considerations
In regards to nutritional breakdown, a2 Milk has a comparable nutrient profile compared to traditional cows milk. Even though the type of protein varieties are different, the amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates are all the same.
Even more exciting, this product is all natural. This means it contains no additives or genetic engineering. In fact, the company uses cows that are fed a vegetarian diet and are free from growth hormones, rBST, or antibiotics.
In addition, a2 dairy farms hold an Animal Welfare Review Certification. This means they meet quality and animal welfare standards which are regularly assessed through third-party audits. You’ll see this certification on every carton of a2 Milk.
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The bottom line
Low fat and nonfat milk and dairy products are an important part of a balanced diet. They provide calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, potassium, and protein which are important and essential nutrients for bone health. In addition, they reduce the risk of high blood pressure, and diabetes as well as improving weight management. Unfortunately, many people minimize or even eliminate milk because of gastric distress and uncomfortable symptoms.
Personally, I recommend a2 Milk to anyone who experiences discomfort with traditional cows milk, since the nutrition content and cost is comparable. If it helps you to drink more milk and meet your nutrition goals pain-free, then it’s definitely worth it!
Remember, this recommendation does not apply if you have been diagnosed with lactose intolerance or milk allergy. To learn more, chat with your registered dietitian or visit about the thea2milkcompany.com.
What are your thoughts on a2 Milk? Share your review in the comments below!
a2 Milk Review
Overall
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Cost
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Taste
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Nutrition
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Effectiveness
Summary
Personally, I recommend a2 Milk to anyone who experiences discomfort with traditional cows milk, since the nutrition content and cost is comparable.
Pros
- Tastes like standard (traditional) cows milk
- Is a great alternative for those that can’t tolerate standard cows milk
- Is produced from cows that are free from growth hormones, rBST, or antibiotics
Cons
- Some a2 Milk products (i.e. non-fat milk, etc.) are not available in the US at this time
- Is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergy
Sources:
A2 Milk definitely helped me getting rid of headaches and discomfort.
I Have just started using it and found it better than regular milk for myself. No discomfort and no headaches. The only problem is that I have always drunk non fat milk and consuming A2 2% fat brand has contributing in gaining weight. I am unable to find even 1% milk fat A2 milk in the market.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (1) No
Thank you for your feedback, Anza! It appears 1% is available. Follow this link to learn more: https://www.a2milk.com/products/a2-milk-low-fat-1/